surely
word · lemma: sure
/ˈʃʊɹɫi/
SHOOR-lee
/ʃˈɔːli/
SHAW-lee
Definition
Used to say that you are quite certain something is true, or that something is expected to happen. It can also be used to show surprise that something seems obvious or reasonable.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both speech and writing. Often sounds more natural than 'certainly' in everyday conversation. It can mean real confidence ('She will surely win') or a surprised reaction, often in questions ('Surely you knew?'). Do not confuse it with 'sure' as an adjective.
Spanish: seguramente - sin dudaPortuguese (BR): certamente - com certezaPortuguese (PT): certamente - sem dúvidaChinese (Simplified): 肯定 - 一定 - 想必Chinese (Traditional): 肯定 - 一定 - 想必Hindi: निश्चित रूप से - जरूरArabic: بالتأكيد - لا بدّBengali: নিশ্চয়ই - অবশ্যইRussian: несомненно - наверняка - конечноJapanese: きっと - きまって - まさかVietnamese: chắc chắn - hẳn làKorean: 분명히 - 틀림없이Turkish: kesinlikle - elbette - mutlakaUrdu: یقیناً - لازماًIndonesian: pasti - tentunya - sudah pasti
Example Sentences
You surely know her name.
basic
This is surely the right bus.
basic
If we leave now, we will surely arrive on time.
basic
Surely there must be an easier way to do this.
natural
He can't be serious, surely.
natural
Surely you didn't believe that story.
natural